In the Chair with bear
Episode 15  ·  1:20:16  ·  June 1, 2026

Zane Qarni — Psychedelics, Consciousness, and Human Performance

Zane Qarni shares insights into his psychedelic research, exploring topics like PTSD treatment, the spiritual connection with plants, and the transformative potential of psychedelics. Discover how these substances influence performance, consciousness, and life choices.

In this episode, Bear sits down with researcher and explorer Zane Qarni for a deep conversation on psychedelics, plant medicine, consciousness, and human potential.

Together, they explore the evolving role psychedelics may play in PTSD treatment, athletic performance, fear reduction, spiritual growth, and personal transformation. The conversation moves between science and spirituality — examining altered states, the intelligence of nature, indigenous wisdom, flow state, pain perception, and the relationship between humans and plants.

Zane shares insights from his research with veterans and athletes, while also discussing the deeper philosophical and spiritual implications surrounding psychedelics and consciousness.

This episode is an open-minded exploration of healing, awareness, performance, and what it means to live more fully connected to nature and ourselves.

In This Episode

  • Psychedelic research in veterans and athletes
  • PTSD treatment and emotional healing
  • The connection between psychedelics and human performance
  • Fear reduction and flow state
  • Spiritual communication with plants
  • Indigenous wisdom and plant medicine traditions
  • Consciousness and altered states
  • Pain perception and the mind-body connection
  • Psychedelics in combat sports and athletics
  • Personal transformation and life direction
  • The role of nature in healing and awareness
 

Episode Chapters

00:00 — Introduction and Personal Updates

02:58 — Psychedelic Research and PTSD

05:59 — Psychedelics Beyond Trauma Treatment

09:08 — Pain Perception and the Mind-Body Connection

11:58 — Fear of Change and Psychedelics

14:59 — Personal Transformations Through Psychedelics

17:50 — Life Choices and Expanded Awareness

20:54 — Consciousness and the Nature of Reality

24:04 — Plants, Healing, and Intelligence

27:06 — Frequency, Nature, and Psychedelics

29:59 — An Invitation to Explore

32:52 — Stories of Transformation

35:55 — Final Thoughts and Reflection

40:24 — Desire, Ego, and True Purpose

43:47 — Spiritual Warfare and Altruism

46:57 — Milarepa, Karma, and Transformation

49:01 — Plant Spirits and the Nature of Magic

52:30 — Indigenous Wisdom and Ancient Knowledge

57:53 — Long-Term Effects of Herbal Remedies

01:01:40 — Humans and Plants: A Symbiotic Relationship

01:07:35 — Psychedelics in Sports and Performance

01:11:57 — The Dual Nature of Psychedelics

01:14:53 — Science Meets Plant Medicine

 

Resources & References

  • Robin Carhartt-Harris’ psychedelic research
  • Michael Pollan — The Omnivore’s Dilemma
  • Wim Hof Method
  • Research on psychedelics and performance optimization
  • Indigenous and traditional plant medicine practices
 

Connect with Zane Qarni

Website: zaneqarni.com Twitter/X: @zaneqarni LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/zaneqarni

 

About In The Chair with Bear

In The Chair with Bear is a long-form podcast exploring the connection between nature, humanity, performance, healing, and modern life through thoughtful conversations with guests from diverse backgrounds.
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